Honda TRX250EX

The first striking change to this Honda is the new TRX450- inspired bodywork which gives the littlie a far more sporty appeal than the previous model, and as we've come to expect from Honda the fit and finish is first class. In addition, the headlight has been upgraded to a brighter 39W high and low beam unit, and at the rear an LED tail-light is now standard equipment.

A new leaner, firmer yet still comfortable seat allows for a roomy operating position for a wide range of riding styles and rider sizes. All controls are well laid out and easy to access. Starting is by key and the push of a button. Dead easy! A practical feature on this model is the addition of reverse gear, which gives easier manoeuvring in tight situations, while a dash-mounted light illuminates when reverse is engaged.

ENGINE AND GEARBOX
The TRX250EX is powered by a lightweight OHV air-cooled 229cc engine, longitudinally mounted in the chassis to allow direct driveshaft alignment to the rear wheels for more efficient power transfer. Honda has used this configuration on other models and it's proved to be a strong and reliable unit. While the power output of the 229cc engine is not arm wrenching it is smooth and lineal and delivered over a wide rpm range ideally suited to novice riders.

A five speed manual shift gearbox with an auto clutch transfers power though a driveshaft to a rear differential. New to this model is what Honda calls a SportsClutch. This setup uses a conventional clutch lever mounted on the left side of the handlebar that can be manually engaged to override the centrifugal clutch, enabling the rider to accelerate more rapidly by manipulating the clutch for quick starts, cornering and hill climbing. Whether or not the clutch is used, the engine will not stall. Our novice testers had fun experimenting with this feature and we can tell you that it provides a painless progression for those learning to master a manual clutch.

SUSPENSION AND BRAKES
Up front the TRX250EX is equipped with independent double A-arms and two coil-over shocks, providing 150mm of suspension travel. On the rear is a steel no-linkage style swingarm and single coil over shock providing 145mm of travel.

 For general trail and dune riding the 250's suspension, coupled with tall 22 inch tyres, provided a compliant ride, soaking up most hits just fine. However, more enthusiastic riders could bottom out the suspension when it was pushed hard through whoops and on bigger jumps.

Aluminium rims fitted with Dunlop tyres provided good traction on sand and hardpacked dirt and contributed to the 250EX's light and neutral steering, with no tendency for the front-end to push excessively while cornering. Dual 174mm hydraulic front disc brakes have no trouble pulling up the Honda's 163kg mass, and on the rear a fully sealed mechanical drum ensures consistent braking.

Underbody protection is a little light on with only one skid plate protecting the engine, but the oversize chassis rails should absorb any impact well.

MAINTENANCE
The TRX250EX requires little in the way of service. It has a fully sealed battery, no drive chain to adjust (it's shaft-drive), and automatic cam chain adjustor that only leaves periodic engine oil changes, lubrication of pivot points and air filter cleaning. This is a dream for the home mechanic.

CONCLUSION
We were fortunate enough to be able to test the TRX250EX for an extended period of time, allowing us to expose the Honda to a variety of riders and terrain conditions. Rider feedback was always favourable proving this machine to be a very capable performer and blast to ride. The Honda is more expensive than its competition, but the money is well spent on a machine that leads the way in this sector of the market.